The Best Cities in Europe: My Top 5
Having now traveled through 20 European countries, I’ve had the opportunity to explore countless cities across this beautiful and diverse continent and I have seen what I believe are the best cities in Europe. Planning a European trip can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to choosing which cities to visit. To help you with your decision-making process, I’ve compiled a list of my top 5 cities in Europe, along with a bonus destination. From rich history and stunning architecture to fabulous cuisine and undeniable charm, these cities have it all. So, let’s dive in and discover the allure of these must-visit European destinations together.
1. Krakow, Poland
I always like to describe Krakow as the more budget-friendly and less touristy version of Prague. This city boasts beautiful architecture, amazing Polish cuisine, and a deep-rooted culture/history that makes it a true European gem. Trust me when I say that Krakow is a city in Europe that you cannot miss. In the summer, the weather is mild, offering a pleasant atmosphere for exploring the city. As a solo traveler, I felt completely at ease and safe during my time there. I also had the opportunity to take a day-trip to Auschwitz which was a harrowing, meaningful, and eye-opening experience. Krakow truly encompasses a blend of affordability, authenticity, and beauty that truly make it one of my must-visit cities in Europe.
2. Madrid, Spain
Madrid holds an incredibly special place in my heart as it was the first stop on my around-the-world trip. When it comes to the Madrid vs. Barcelona debate, Madrid wins hands down for me. The city offers a range of free activities, like exploring the beautiful El Retiro Park, making it more budget-friendly compared to Barcelona. The food I had in Madrid was exceptional, especially at the fabulous Tabernera El Sur. Madrid has a unique charm that truly captured my heart and made it a memorable start to my adventure.
3. Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Although Mostar (and Bosnia in general) might not be on the top of everyone’s list for their next European adventure, I’m here to share with you why it deserves to be. This hidden gem offers a blend of rich history and unique architecture that sets it apart from the typical European city. The centerpiece of Mostar, the iconic Mostar Old Bridge, creates a picturesque setting to simply just sit and enjoy the beauty around you. If you’re planning a trip to Mostar, I can’t emphasize enough how amazing my stay at Hostel Majdas was. The hospitality and overall experience there was truly one of the best hostel experiences I have ever had.
4. Lisbon, Portugal
Similar to Madrid, Lisbon will always hold a special place in my heart. This was the first European city I ever went to and my time there truly made me realize my passion for travel. The tile buildings, pastel de nada, and cobblestone streets make this the quintessential European city. There truly is nowhere else in the world like Lisbon. If you plan on taking a trip there, don’t forget to sketch in time to go visit Sintra for a day!
5. Nice, France
While Paris is truly the iconic European city, there are few places in the world as special and beautiful as the French Riviera. Nestled along this stunning coastline, Nice serves as the perfect homebase for exploring the region’s beauty. This adorable and colorful city offers jaw-dropping views of the French coastline while also providing easy access to other destinations along the Riviera. During my time there, I was able to take day-trips to Cannes, Monaco, Eze, and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. While it’s true that Nice can err on the pricier side, there are still ways to enjoy it on a budget. Splitting the cost of an Airbnb among friends can make accommodations more affordable and utilizing their public transportation can get you around Nice and the surrounding cities for less than 2 Euros!
6. Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh, a city that left me in awe, was the perfect ending to my fantastic roadtrip through the Scottish Highlands. This city showcases the unique culture of Scotland in all regards. From its ancient castles to the Royal Mile, Edinburgh combines history, tradition, and just a touch of magic. For all the Harry Potter fans out there, this city is a must-visit destination that will make you feel like you’re truly living in J.K Rowling’s magical world.
